basic-guide-to-exporting_Latest_eg_main_086196

Many local chambers of commerce in the United States provide sophisticated andextensive services for members interested in exporting:• Export seminars, workshops, androundtable discussions• Certificates of origin• Trade promotion programs, includingoverseas missions, mailings, andevent planning• U.S. pavilions at foreign trade shows• Contacts with foreign companiesand distributors• Export sales leads and otheropportunities to members• Transportation routings andshipment consolidations• Visiting trade missions fromother countries• International activities at domestictrade showsIndustry and Trade AssociationsSome industry and trade associations can supply detailed information on marketdemand for products in selected countries, or they can refer members to exportmanagement companies. Industry trade associations typically collect and maintainfiles on international trade news and trends affecting their industry or line ofbusiness. They often publish articles and newsletters that include governmentresearch. National and international trade associations often organize large regional,national, and international trade shows themselves. To find a chamber in your area,visit uschamber.com.American Chambers of Commerce AbroadThe local chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) is a valuableand reliable source of market information in any foreign country. Local chapters areknowledgeable about local trade opportunities, actual and potential competition,periods of maximum trade activity, and similar considerations.AMCHAMs usually handle inquiries from any U.S. business. Detailed services areordinarily provided free of charge for members of affiliated organizations. SomeAMCHAMs have a set schedule of charges for services rendered to nonmembers.International Trade Consultants and Other AdvisersInternational trade consultants can advise and assist a manufacturer on all aspectsof foreign marketing. Trade consultants do not normally deal specifically with oneproduct, although they may advise on product adaptation to a foreign market. Theyresearch domestic and foreign regulations and also assess commercial and politicalrisk. They conduct foreign market research and establish contacts with foreigngovernment agencies and other necessary resources, such as advertising companies,product service facilities, and local attorneys.Consultants in international trade can locate and qualify foreign joint venturepartners and can conduct feasibility studies for the sale of manufacturing rights, the54U.S. Commercial Service • A Basic Guide to Exporting